This is an oddly satisfying, deer-resistant, space-eating perennial. Its clumps steadily sneak across the landscape, slowly expanding its collection of delicate yet sturdy upright stems atop of which alight delightfully large yellow flowers. This is an excellent plant to supply for your local pollen seekers (as opposed to nectar lovers). Stems left in the garden can provide late season interest as the pleasant green leaves crisp and create a dark nearly orange contrast to the pale winter palette. The seed heads – if left – become beautiful little sculptures reminiscent of tiny tulips (removing the seed heads is recommended for smaller spaces), though they can be snipped off the stems and used in fall and winter arrangements where the seeds are supervised and won’t get into any trouble.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade
Size: 4’-5’ tall
Zone: 3 - 7
Wildlife Value: Larval host for up to 20 butterfly and moth species; flowers attract various pollinators, including hover flies
Photo: Lindsey Laban